Rolf Schimpf, known as "Der Alte," has passed away at the age of 100. His portrayal of Hauptkommissar Leo Kress in the beloved ZDF crime series "Der Alte" left an indelible mark on German television.
From 1986 to 2007, Schimpf starred in the series, where he appeared a remarkable 222 times. Many viewers fondly remember him for his calm yet authoritative manner, shunning the action-fueled depictions common to many crime dramas.
Born on November 14, 1924, in Berlin, Rolf Schimpf's early life was shaped by the tumult of 20th-century Europe. His father, a Marine officer, died under unclear circumstances in 1935, and Schimpf himself faced hardship during the Second World War, suffering a severe head injury while serving.
Following the war, Schimpf found his way to acting after a series of unsuccessful attempts in other careers, such as commerce and forestry. He soon transitioned to theater and began appearing on television, garnering attention with his role in the series "Mensch Bachmann." This success led to his casting in "Der Alte," which would take him to legendary status.
Schimpf's impactful performance as Leo Kress garnered affection not just in Germany but internationally, with the show being a significant export success for ZDF, reaching audiences in over 100 countries.
His professional journey was intertwined with his personal life; Schimpf married actress Ilse Zielstorff, to whom he was wed for nearly 50 years until her passing in 2015. The loss of his beloved wife deeply affected him, and in recent years, he struggled with financial instability after having to leave his upscale retirement home due to rising costs.
On March 22, 2025, Schimpf died peacefully at 7:30 AM in a Munich nursing home. His son, Daniel Sigurdsson, learned of the news this morning, marking the end of an era and the loss of a cherished figure in television history.
During a visit to his nursing home shortly before his death, Schimpf reflected on reaching such a grand age, stating: "I never thought I would reach 100 years old." However, he also expressed sadness, saying, "It’s not funny to get so old. You forget so much, and the people who were most important to you are all gone."
Reports indicated that Schimpf had suffered from dementia, which took a toll on his memory and daily life. Yet even as his condition worsened, he remained fond of his favorite role. "Leo Kress was my favorite role. That was a lot of fun," he said, signifying his enduring connection to the character.
His passing leaves not only fond memories but also a legacy of understated yet impactful acting. Schimpf's presence in "Der Alte" became synonymous with the show, earning him the respect of not just fans but also officials, including the Bavarian Interior Minister, who honored him as an honorary commissioner in 1989.
Even in his 90s, when he faced tough financial conditions, Schimpf's love for his previous home was evident, having lived there since 2009. In 2023, financial constraints forced him to relocate to a less expensive facility—a move that significantly affected him emotionally, as he had grown attached to his home, where he enjoyed social activities like coffee and cake gatherings.
As the news of Rolf Schimpf's death spreads, he will be remembered not only for his iconic role as Hauptkommissar Leo Kress but as a beloved figure in German culture whose humility and sincerity won him friends and fans across generations.
Schimpf's life journey reflected the struggles and victories of many artists, adapting to a rapidly changing world while remaining true to his craft. His story inspires those who cherish authentic storytelling that resonates with audiences.
In remembrance of Schimpf, many will hold dear the character of Leo Kress, whose adventures captivated viewers for decades. "I always wanted to be a friend to all people. Thank you for being here. Goodbye," Schimpf remarked, one last heartfelt goodbye that encapsulates his warmth and passion for humanity.
The legacy of Rolf Schimpf, through his work and character, will undoubtedly continue, inspiring future generations of artists and keeping his memory alive in the hearts of fans everywhere.
